p>The Bay Area is famous for its diverse cuisine, and for being one of the more vegan-friendly cities in the country. While those who choose a meatless diet often find their options limited at many restaurants, throughout the Bay Area they’ll find numerous establishments that have painstakingly created meat-free versions of a wide range of dishes, from Southern cooking to Asian cuisine. There are also plenty of vegan restaurants in Monterey, which offer something for every taste and every budget.

El Cantaro

Mexican cuisine isn’t usually vegan-friendly, but that’s certainly the exception at El Cantaro, which offers local vegans a place to enjoy their favorite Mexican dishes without worrying about the ingredients. El Cantaro focuses on the health benefits of enjoying a meat-free diet, and has built a creative, tasty menu from available vegan food options. The eatery serves up meatless versions of traditional Mexican recipes, including tacos made with potato and huaraches topped with beans, salsa, cactus, mushrooms and onions. Diners can wash all of that hot and spicy food down with the restaurant’s extensive list of signature beverages, such as smoothies, and top it all off with a vegan-friendly dessert such as vegan mint chip ice cream.

Ike’s Lair

This San Francisco eatery offers something for vegans and vegetarians alike, as well as for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Ike’s Lair is known for its meatless sandwiches that offer all of the flavor and texture as the original versions, such as its vegan Shrek, which is loaded with goodies including mushrooms, pesto, ranch and vegan cheese. It’s also known for its faux meatball sub, the vegan meatless Mike, which is hearty and savory enough to satisfy even the most dedicated carnivore. The many sandwich options make the restaurant the ideal place to grab a quick meal on the go. Fun sandwich names add a playful touch to meals, and there are also meat-heavy alternatives to enjoy ay Ike’s Lair if you aren’t on a meat-free diet.

Enjoy a meal at one of these charming spots that serve vegan meals. Confirm menu offerings online or by calling the restaurants.